Non-Western Philosophy -
Essay - The Tao Te Ching
Choose three chapters from the Tao Te Ching which interest you and write an essay in which you analyze the meaning of the verses and explain how they reflect Taoist teachings like Tao, yin, yang, zhenren, ming, chi, tzu jan, and wu wei.
You can obtain a copy from the library, purchase one, or read online at
http://acc6.its.brooklyn.cuny.edu/~phalsall/texts/taote-v3.html
Take these things into consideration:
Why did you choose this particular Chapter?
What themes or ideas are supposed to be expressed in these verses?
How does each chapter relate to ming, chi, tao, wu wei, tzu jan, yin/yang, etc.? Explain and be specific.
In what ways do these verses reflect the meaning of Taoist philosophy?
How are words and images used?
Do you see ways in which such ideas might be useful in the modern world? How could these verses be applied to real-world situations?
Do you know of any examples of living according to the doctrine of wu wei? What about behavior that is the opposite of wu wei, or not-Tao?
What is your reaction to Taoist thought and the practice of wu wei?
To what extent are you like the Taoist ideal, the "unhewn block"? Do you think you are authentic, natural, and free-flowing? Why or why not?
Be sure to mention which chapter you are reviewing and to quote the verses you discuss.
For further insight into the meaning of the verses you choose, you may consider supplementing your reading with another translation of the Tao Te Ching.
Format: 3 pages, 12 pt. Times New Roman, 1" margins, double-spaced,stapled, Works Cited pg, in-text citations